THE IMPERATIVES OF DEMOCRACY TO NATIONAL INTEGRATION: A HERMENEUTICAL APPROACH

Abstract

Democracy is a social phenomenon that principally recognises the identity and interests of the members of the state. Being democratic entails due recognition of the opinions and interests of the people. In politics, democracy helps to determine how people assume leadership positions through fair representation of majority interests via votes. This practice is associated with the idea of “majority rule”. This study identifies a problem of misinterpretation of democracy as it tends to downplay the interests of “the minority”. This is problematic because, “majority rule” is largely misinterpreted as majority – minority discrimination; in the interests of the former and at the expense of the latter. This orientation manifests in Nigeria’s political system. The study observes that the Nigerian practice of democracy breeds crises among citizens and groups, and consequently inhibits national development. To alleviate the situation, the study employs hermeneutics for its theoretical framework. It adopts qualitative research methodology, to critically and contextually interpret democracy, its principles and entailments. It recommends inclusion of the “minority” groups; through fair representation and social justice. The objective is to create an egalitarian and a well-ordered society. The paper asserts that democracy is a veritable mechanism of national integration and flourishing; predicated on the principles of equity and social justice.